France and Spain are preparing for another spell of extreme heat as firefighters continue battling major wildfires that have forced tens of thousands of people from their homes and scorched thousands of hectares of land.
Emergency crews remained deployed across southwestern France, particularly in the Gironde region near Bordeaux, where fast moving fires have destroyed forests, threatened communities and prompted large scale evacuations. Authorities warned that high temperatures, strong winds and dry conditions could fuel further fire outbreaks in the coming days.
In Spain, firefighters were also battling blazes near Madrid and in other regions as soaring temperatures and prolonged drought created dangerous conditions. Several roads were closed, residents were evacuated from affected communities and authorities urged people to avoid unnecessary travel in high-risk areas.
French and Spanish weather agencies forecast temperatures exceeding 40 degrees Celsius in parts of both countries, with officials warning that the heatwave could place additional strain on emergency services already responding to multiple fires.
Authorities in both countries have urged residents to follow evacuation orders, avoid forested areas and take precautions against heat-related illnesses. Firefighters said containing the blazes could take several days, depending on weather conditions.
Scientists say climate change is increasing the frequency and intensity of heatwaves and wildfires across southern Europe, leaving countries increasingly vulnerable during the summer months.
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